Pedestrianisation in Newbury: Listening to Local Voices Matters

Over recent weeks, I’ve heard from many constituents about the extended pedestrianisation trial in Newbury town centre.

Like many people, I care deeply about our high street - the mix of shops and hospitality, the markets and events, and the role it plays in bringing people together. Everyone wants Newbury to thrive, and that shared aim matters as we consider what happens next.

I’ve heard from local businesses concerned about footfall and trade, from residents worried about traffic, safety, and accessibility, and from visitors who want to be able to use the town centre easily and confidently. These views deserve to be taken seriously.

It’s right to acknowledge that the pedestrianisation trial was a clear manifesto commitment by West Berkshire Council, and that testing ideas before making permanent changes is sensible. But a trial only works if the feedback that follows genuinely shapes the outcome.

Over recent weeks, I’ve been raising these concerns directly. I’ve met with the Leader of the Council to discuss constituent feedback and how decisions will be taken, and I have since written to the council team to seek clarity on how evidence from the trial and consultation is being assessed, and how transparency and trust in the process will be maintained.

What many people are telling me now is that they feel uncertain about how their views are being weighed. Recent reporting has reinforced the importance of clear communication and openness at this stage.

This debate also doesn’t need to be an all‑or‑nothing choice. Other towns have taken more flexible approaches - pedestrianising at certain times or for events - and I believe being open to those kinds of options would be constructive.

I will continue meeting, writing, and pressing for answers, and will keep constituents informed as discussions progress.

Finally, thank you to everyone who has taken the time to get in touch. Your feedback is shaping the conversations happening behind the scenes, and I will continue to make sure it is heard.